During COVID-19, Martin Seligman, known as the father of Positive Psychology, who was 77 years old then, was exposed. He described his thought process as follows:
Worst-case scenario: "I am sure to get infected, since my daughter goes to school here. Once infected, I will get a severe case, and being in my 70s I will die."
Best-case scenario: "I will not get infected, nor will any of my family. This will blow over, and we'll all be fine."
Most likely scenario: "I will probably eventually get infected, but like most adults my symptoms will be nonexistent or mild. Even though I am in the age of risk, I am perfectly fit, so I will likely just be uncomfortably ill for a week or so and then recover."
This exercise, which Seligman calls "Put It in Perspective," is designed to help people redirect their thoughts from irrational to rational, especially during times of uncertainty and anxiety. By considering the worst, best, and most likely outcomes, individuals can gain a more balanced perspective on their situation and reduce catastrophic thinking.
Put more options on the table. I always appreciate Jason's insight.
During COVID-19, Martin Seligman, known as the father of Positive Psychology, who was 77 years old then, was exposed. He described his thought process as follows:
Worst-case scenario: "I am sure to get infected, since my daughter goes to school here. Once infected, I will get a severe case, and being in my 70s I will die."
Best-case scenario: "I will not get infected, nor will any of my family. This will blow over, and we'll all be fine."
Most likely scenario: "I will probably eventually get infected, but like most adults my symptoms will be nonexistent or mild. Even though I am in the age of risk, I am perfectly fit, so I will likely just be uncomfortably ill for a week or so and then recover."
This exercise, which Seligman calls "Put It in Perspective," is designed to help people redirect their thoughts from irrational to rational, especially during times of uncertainty and anxiety. By considering the worst, best, and most likely outcomes, individuals can gain a more balanced perspective on their situation and reduce catastrophic thinking.
Put more options on the table. I always appreciate Jason's insight.
Wow this is amazing information for everyone to know it’s taken me a lifetime to learn this